...the way of the sword!

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The House of the Four Winds: One Dozen Daughters #1  by Mercedes Lackey James Mallory

 The Duchy of Swansgaarde has been blessed with twelve beautiful princesses and one prince. Twelve royal dowries would impoverish the small Duchy so it was determined by the princesses at a family council that the only way forward was for them to leave the Duchy on their eighteenth birthday and seek their fortune. Each daughter is allowed to pick a trade on her tenth birthday. Duke Rupert advises them to expect the best and plan for the worst. Wise words indeed.  
It is Princess Clarice of Swansgaarde's eighteen birthday. She goes forth to make her way in the world. Princess Clarice had chosen the way of the sword.
Her search for her fortune, her life's journey, is an eventful story full of merit. The New World is her destination. Disguised as a young man, Mr. Clarence Swann takes ship. Pirates, entrapment and ensorcellment are encountered. The major characters are interesting but somehow the story just didn't come off with the verve and energy I expect from these two authors.
A new twist to the Twelve Dancing Princesses, the premise of The House of Four Winds is fascinating with a wide vista of potential for the series.

 A NetGalley ARC

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